When most of us were growing up mum kept a bottle of eucalyptus oil handy in the cupboard.  She used it for getting sticky labels off jars and sat us down with our head over a bowl of eucalyptus oil and hot water when we had a stuffy nose.

But how many of us have really explored the full potential of this most versatile of essential oils?  Did you know it’s a natural antibacterial, freshener, de-greaser, solvent, stain remover and germ-killer amongst many other things?  So if you’re still only using it for stickers and colds – you’re missing out!

Try some of these great ideas with eucalyptus oil while the weather’s still chilly.

1. Wake up shower
   Like citrus and peppermint, eucalyptus oil is a renowned for its ability to “wake up” the senses. On those cold, sleepy winter mornings you can’t bear to leave your doona, try keeping some beside your bed with a tissue – dab a bit on, and inhale.  Hello, morning!  
   A few drops on a face washer, left at the base of a hot shower, will also do the trick – the hot water releases the vapours, helping you shake off that sleepy fuzzy feeling.
   
   
2. Warm up oil
   We all know how important it is to have loose, relaxed muscles before sport or exercise – especially when it’s cold outside.  Eucalyptus oil can help temporarily relieve muscular aches and pains, and it’s perfect for before and after working out.  Think of it as nature’s heat rub!
   
   For a great pre-training (or after training) rub, mix one part Bosisto's Eucalyptus Oil to two parts baby oil, olive oil or almond oil. Massage briskly into affected areas.   Or to save time, you can use Bosisto’s Eucalyptus Spray instead.  Time for boot camp…

3. Freshen sports clothes
   Stinky socks and leggings, muddy footy jumpers – winter sports and activity continue, but without the luxury of drying outside things can get a little whiffy in the laundry. Try adding 2 capfuls of Bosisto’s Eucalyptus Oil to the wash, along with your laundry detergent.   It helps kill germs that can cause odours, while freshening and deodorising the whole wash.  Remember to always wash garments according to manufacturers’ directions.
   
   Spraying sports shoes and runners with Bosisto’s Eucalyptus Spray is also a great way to freshen and kill germs in between workouts (and also, they won’t stink out your cupboard).

4. Germ-buster
   Winter is when all the bugs come out to play.  Make sure you’re prepared with Bosisto’s Eucalyptus Spray – it kills 99.99% common household germs and helps prevent bacteria growth.  Spray doorknobs, keyboards, toys and communal surfaces for a hygienic environment.  Smell that?  That’s the smell of no added synthetic fragrances around your family too.

5. Relaxing bath
   Ahhh… there’s nothing like a warm bath to ease tired, aching muscles at the end of the day, especially in winter. Again, eucalyptus oil can help.   Put one cup of lectric soda (available at supermarkets) and 1 tsp eucalyptus oil in the warm running bath to dissolve.  Now: relax.
   
   
6. Clean up chunder wonder
   Inevitably, someone in the family will succumb to a flu or bug which means some “post-illness cleanup” may be necessary.  This is where eucalyptus oil really shines.
   
   It kills germs, helps clean stains and leaves a fresh, crisp scent that masks any residual odour.  Mix a few capfuls in warm water with some gentle detergent, like this, to carefully sponge down any areas of carpet, mattresses or furniture which have been affected (try to wet as little as possible).
   
   Spray mattresses with Bosisto’s Eucalyptus Spray when changing sheets, and spray it around bedrooms to help ease cold and flu symptoms.  When laundering soiled bedding or clothes, soak them first in a sink or bucket of warm water, with 1 cup white vinegar and 2 capfuls of eucalyptus oil, then pop another 2 capfuls in with your laundry detergent in the wash. 

SHOP EUCALYPTUS OIL HERE, or find in the medicine aisle of supermarkets & pharmacy.

Always read the label and follow the directions for use.